Mrs. Helen "Fran" Durkin

September 18, 1922 - November 7, 2011

Helen Frances Durkin Loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother LOWELL—Helen Frances (Dunn) Durkin returned to our Lord on Monday, November 7, 2011, surrounded by her family. She was the beloved wife of James J. Durkin, Jr. of Chelmsford. Born in Haverhill, MA on September 18, 1922, she was the second of three daughters born to Frank and Anne (Martin) Dunn. Fran graduated from St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing and practiced as a Registered Nurse for over a quarter of a century in a variety of settings. Fran enjoyed crossword puzzles, knitting, lighthouses, and mystery stories. There was not a flavor of ice cream she did not like. Her greatest source of happiness came from her husband Jim, her four children, and their families. Always willing to lend an ear, apply a Band-Aid, or “fix” a hurt, she was a constant source of comfort, support, and love as a wife, mother, and nurse. One of her many enduring gifts was her ability to accomplish many great things in a very small and humble way. Fran is survived by her husband of almost 64 years, James J. Durkin, Jr.; their four children and their spouses, Jim and Mary Durkin of Tyngsboro, MA, Ann Marie and David Muething of Bethlehem, PA, Frank and Martha Durkin of Holden, MA, and Edward and Patricia Durkin of Townsend, MA. She also leaves her eleven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. She will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all. FUNERAL NOTICE DURKIN—In Lowell, Nov. 7, 2011 at Saints Medical Center, Helen “Fran” (Dunn) Durkin, 89, the beloved wife for 64 years of James J. Durkin, Jr. of Chelmsford. Family and friends may call at the FAY McCABE FUNERAL HOME, 105 MOORE STREET, LOWELL on FRIDAY from 4 until 7 PM. Mrs. Durkin’s Funeral will begin on SATURDAY MORNING at 8 o’clock from the Funeral Home, followed by her Funeral Mass at 9 o’clock at ST. MARY’S CHURCH, North Road, Chelmsford. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Tewksbury. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Fran’s memory may be made to St. Mary’s Church, 25 North Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824 or to Merrimack Valley Hospice, 360 Merrimack Street, Lawrence, MA 01843. Arrangements by the FAY McCABE FUNERAL DIRECTORS, 978-459-9222. www.faymccabe.com